The Taconera Gardens in Pamplona is one of the most peaceful places to spend some time, while in Navarre. This place of tranquility has beautiful flowers, birds in choir and perfectly choreographed pathways that play tour guide. Enchanting guests since its conception in 1830, these gardens continue to romance visitors. Come and immerse yourself in the splendor of La Jardines de la Taconera.
Design of Taconera Gardens
You really can’t say enough of this park. It’s timelessly beautiful. It is conveniently located as an extension of Casco Antiguo. It is a relaxing location that contrasts nicely with the business of Plaza del Castillo.
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Footpaths weave between the botanical gardens. The gardens are a fusion of divergent flora heritages that compliment each other nicely. Influences vary from all over the world including Asian, African and America.
Pro tip: The north side of the park sits atop some of the tallest walls that frame Casco Antiguo. If the skies are clear this is the best, and most romantic place to watch the sunset. The views of the city below, the mountains in the distances, and the changing colours of the sky above a fading sun, is fairytale-esque.
What to See in Taconera Gardens
Animals
The far side of the park from Casco Antiguo has a variety of birds and where some deer call home. The deer wander between the old walls of the city, lazing around and drinking from the moat. The walking path around is on the walls. This leisurely stroll allows you to get relatively close to the deer without putting yourself in direct contact.
Known as one of the best places in the city for bird watching, a diversity of species like to frequent these gardens. Depending on the season, you may find yourself fortunate enough to hear one group of birds singing while others play with each other, in their seemingly scripted aerial dance. Some of the birds you might come across include kestrels, robins, and swifts. Birds of prey are also be observable. The red kite is a common one.
Monuments
There are some really nice monuments within the gardens. Two of the must see elements are the old gates to the city. The two gates are Portal de La Taconera (Taconera Gate) and Portal de San Nicolás (San Nicolás Gate).
San Nicolás Gate was constructed in 1660. It was the city’s southern entrance. It was moved to its current location 1929. In 1666 Taconera Gate was constructed. It was the entrance for the western wall. It was taken down in the early 1900s and reconstructed in 2002. The history of these gates shows how the city changed over time and how people tried to protect its old structures.
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The Monument to Julián Gayarre is located on the north side of the park. It is a memorial to the great tenor of this region. It’s inauguration into the park’s landscape was in 1950. The base of the monument is a fountain while the rising column has 14 figures on it along with the crest of Navarre. Julián Gayarre stands atop the monument dressed in opera clothing we famously wore to a preform in Madrid.
While wandering around the many lovely gardens you will see smaller statues, monuments and fountains. Spread throughout the park and add to the park’s class and character. The city of Pamplona also has an English website that offers more detail about the different monuments.
Taconera Gardens: The Verdict
The Gardens of Taconera are beautiful, and one of the must see attractions in Pamplona. Located next to the Old Town (Casco Antiguo) it is a wonderful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Plaza del Castillo. The birds are singing, the deer are lounging, the flowers are blooming and the walkways are wide. Treat yourself to a slice of tranquility and beauty by visiting this ancient oasis. It will do the soul good.